New EV Charger Coming to Town

Published on 02 June 2023

Electric vehicle drivers will have more reasons to visit Mansfield Shire with the installation of a new public EV fast charger in the Mansfield township.

Council supported Evie Networks’ successful funding bid for $2.9 million through the Victorian Government’s Destination Charging Across Victoria Program, which will see a new 50Kw charger installed in town over the coming months.

The charger will come at no cost to ratepayers, underlining Council’s commitment to support the most cost-effective opportunity to bring this infrastructure to Mansfield Shire.

Mayor Cr James Tehan said Council understands the need for this technology in a public space to meet the demands of both residents and tourists.

“The addition of this charger will make Mansfield Shire a more attractive proposition for the increasing numbers of electric vehicle owners, making it easier for them to drive or stay in our region,” he said.

“They need to plan their journeys around where they can charge, and this new installation will complement the current offerings from businesses in the area and also encourage more locals to make the switch to EVs.”

The new charger will be installed in the car park on Early Street, Mansfield, behind FoodWorks supermarket. This location was governed by factors including the high costs associated with upgrading power infrastructure in other locations and being on Council-owned land. Locations on state government-controlled roads were outside the scope of grant funding, and Council officers worked with Evie Networks to consider multiple sites around Mansfield.

Evie is entering a 10-year lease with Council to provide the EV charger, and all of the Evie network is powered by 100 per cent renewable energy. Users will be charged 45 cents per kilowatt hour for power consumed.

Construction is expected to commence in late June/early July, with construction taking approximately one week. The charger will then be operational within several weeks once energised, which is dependent on the power authority.

Traffic management and signage will be on display during this time, and drivers are asked to please observe and adhere to the safety messaging.

For more information on this project, contact Council at council@mansfield.vic.gov.au or call (03) 5775 8555.